Corn Pudding
Corn pudding is a beloved comfort food that combines sweet corn with a creamy, custard-like base, resulting in a dish that’s both savory and sweet. Perfect for family gatherings or holiday meals, this delightful pudding is easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests. With its golden color and rich flavor, corn pudding is not just a side dish; it’s a centerpiece that brings everyone together.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen corn
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 6 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 45 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/6 of the recipe) contains approximately 200 calories, 5g protein, 30g carbohydrates, 7g fat, and 2g fiber. This is based on conventional ingredients used in the recipe.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the corn, milk, and melted butter.
- Add the eggs and whisk until well combined.
- In another bowl, mix the cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and set.
- Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick – it should come out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute fresh corn with canned or frozen corn if fresh is unavailable. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free cornmeal. You can also replace regular milk with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
Serving and Pairings
Corn pudding pairs beautifully with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. It’s an excellent side for holiday meals, barbecues, or potlucks, adding a touch of sweetness to your plate.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover corn pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not preheating the oven can result in uneven cooking.
- Overmixing the batter can make the pudding dense.
- Using too much cornmeal can lead to a gritty texture.
- Not greasing the baking dish properly may cause sticking.
- Skipping the cooling time can make it difficult to slice.
Helpful Tips
- Try adding cheese for a savory twist.
- Use fresh herbs for added flavor.
- Experiment with different types of corn for varied taste.
- For a spicier version, add chopped jalapeños.
FAQs
Can I make corn pudding ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Is corn pudding gluten-free?
Traditional corn pudding is gluten-free, but always check your cornmeal and other ingredients to ensure they are certified gluten-free.
Can I use canned corn instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Canned or frozen corn works well in this recipe, just drain any excess liquid.
How can I make my corn pudding sweeter?
You can add more sugar or incorporate sweet corn varieties for extra sweetness.
What can I serve with corn pudding?
Corn pudding pairs well with fried chicken, barbecue, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Conclusion
Corn pudding is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with rich flavors, making it a staple for many gatherings. Its versatility allows for numerous variations, ensuring it can cater to diverse tastes. Whether served as a side or a main attraction, corn pudding will surely become a favorite at your table.
Corn Pudding
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen corn
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup butter melted
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the corn, milk, and melted butter.
- Add the eggs and whisk until well combined.
- In another bowl, mix the cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and set.
- Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick – it should come out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.